An efficient heterogeneous iron oxide nanoparticle catalyst for the synthesis of 9-substituted xanthene-1,8-dione

An efficient and simple method for the synthesis of xanthene derivatives by using iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) as a catalyst has been investigated. Synthesis of 9-substituted xanthene-1,8-dione derivatives involves one-pot reaction of dimedone and aldehyde in the presence of iron oxide nanoparticles using polar protic ethanol as a solvent. Interestingly, this catalyst has been recovered by simple filtration and reused for up to five cycles without much loss of its productivity. The merits of this protocol are cost-effectiveness of the catalyst, having no harmful side products, simple process, short reaction time, convenient product isolation and potential yields. Graphic abstract